Franklin Templeton has launched Putnam Investments’ US Research Fund in Singapore and Hong Kong, expanding client access to differentiated investment opportunities.

The firm plans to introduce a range of Putnam’s flagship strategies, known for their consistent performance and stock-driven approach, across Asia. Putnam Investments joined Franklin Templeton’s group of specialist investment managers in 2024.

The FTGF Putnam US Research Fund, a sub-fund of the Irish-domiciled Franklin Templeton Global Funds, has been authorized by the Securities and Futures Commission in Hong Kong for retail investors and registered as an authorized scheme for retail investors in Singapore.

The fund offers investors US large-cap equity exposure, focusing on stock selection as the primary driver of active return and maintains a sector-neutral portfolio backed by Putnam Investments’ extensive research capabilities, including analysts based in Boston, London, and Singapore.

Christian Bucaro, head of wealth for Asia at Franklin Templeton, comments: “Putnam is a world-class manager recognized for its deep research capabilities, disciplined investment processes, and a proven track record of delivering consistent results.

“We are delighted to broaden investor access to Putnam’s compelling investment strategies, starting with the FTGF Putnam US Research Fund, which seeks to achieve smoother relative performance through volatile markets and can offer complementary exposures to client portfolios.”

Despite market volatility, US equities remain a cornerstone of global portfolios and currently comprise over 70% of the MSCI World Index. “The US market remains highly relevant for both global and equity-focused investors over the long term,” Bucaro adds.

In addition to the FTGF Putnam US Research Fund, the FTGF Franklin Ultra Short Duration Income Fund has also been registered as an authorized scheme for retail investors in Singapore. A number of Putnam strategies will also be made available to professional investors in Hong Kong.